Black History Month Blog Series: Nikeisha Sewell Lewis

Meet Nikeisha Sewell Lewis, Operations Manager of People and Culture department at RDP.

First, Nikeisha Sewell Lewis described her experience as a member of the Black community in central Alberta and as an employee at Red Deer Polytechnic.

"Having moved to Central Alberta, I have become more aware of how I present myself and how I interact in different spaces. As a Black person, I am accustomed to a range of reactions—both positive, like the many warm smiles I encounter, and more challenging ones, like when I sense being viewed with uncertainty or fear. While navigating this in Central Alberta can be difficult, I am grateful for RDP where I feel safe. I also appreciate that Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) is taking steps in the right direction through initiatives like the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) strategy, which shows a growing commitment to recognizing and addressing these issues."

How do you celebrate your identity (heritage)?

"I celebrate my identity in everything I do. It is reflected in the food I eat, the language I speak—including Jamaican Patois at home and with my friends and family—and the music I listen. My Caribbean and Jamaican heritage is deeply connected to who I am; it has defined my entire existence. I also celebrate my identity by teaching my children to be proud of being Black, Caribbean, and Jamaican and by actively participating in activities that promote Black Excellence."

Who (or what event/moment) do you think about when you hear Black resistance? Why?

"Black resistance reminds me of many pivotal moments in history. I think of my country, Jamaica, gaining independence in 1962, the abolition of slavery in 1834, the Sam Sharpe Rebellion in 1831 and Bussa's Rebellion in 1816. I also think of influential figures like our Jamaican heroine Nanny of the Maroons, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, formidable athlete, Mia Motley and Marcus Garvey, Caribbean leaders, as well as the Black women and men in my life, including my mother, grandmother, and aunts and uncles, who worked tirelessly to create better opportunities for our family. Their resilience and contributions are potent examples of Black resistance that I think of daily."

What role do you see yourself playing in the Black community in the future?

"I will continue promoting Black Excellence, participating in initiatives like the Black History Month and EDI committees, and attending community events. I am also involved with Jamrock Albertans, a group dedicated to creating a culturally safe space, which is essential."

In what ways can everyone contribute to the advancement of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the Black community?

"One of the most important steps is recognizing that inequities still exist and that marginalized groups face challenges. People can contribute by educating themselves, asking questions, and actively seeking to understand the experiences of others. Using one's privilege to create safer spaces and advocate for equity is also crucial in making a difference."

Is there additional information you wish to share?

"We all have a role to play in creating a more equitable society. Black History Month is just one opportunity to highlight the contributions of Black communities, but advancing equity and inclusion should be ongoing. Change requires all of us. Allyship is a key component of change. I encourage all of us to become allies. Let's use our privilege and help create the world we want."